Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge. (IDA-International Dyslexia Association)

All people with dyslexia share the above characteristics, yet dyslexia does appear on a continuum from mild to severe.

There are many famous dyslexics in the spatial fields of architecture, science, medicine, the arts, and entrepreneurship. While these individuals are widely recognized, it is the students whom I have been privileged to work with that come to mind. They have all struggled with unlocking the layers of a symbol- based written language system, but this is not what rises to the surface. Not surprisingly, Green River Literacy students are painters, photographers, entrepreneurs, snowboarders, equestrians, yoga practitioners, and engineers. Given the tools, they have come to embrace themselves as learners. They have found their voice.

“What is Dyslexia” by Kelli Sandman-Hurley